What is Endodontics?

Endodontics is that branch of dentistry concerned with the morphology and pathology of the pulpo-dentine complex and the periradicular tissues. The study and practice of endodontics encompass the basic clinical sciences including the biology of the normal pulp, and the aetiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries to the pulp and associated periradicular tissues.

What is an Endodontist?

In accordance with the recommendations of the Dental Board of Australia (the 'Board) and the Dental Council of New Zealand (the 'Council') for the training of dental specialists, for a dentist to be recognized as a specialist endodontist, they shall have the following:

1. Completed a minimum of two-years of general dental practice (This requirement may be achieved by experience outside Australia or New Zealand, subject to consideration and approval by the Board or the Council.)
2. Meet all other requirements for registration as a general dentist (e.g. be fit for registration and must be competent to practise within that scope of practice)
3. Completed an approved/prescribed programme of study/qualification for specialist registration in Australia or New Zealand. Alternatively, qualification equivalent pathways are available. In Australia, where a person holds a qualification not approved by the Board, the qualification is assessed against specific criteria to determine whether the qualification is substantially equivalent to a programme of study approved by the Board. In New Zealand, for non-prescribed qualifications, training and experience are assessed by the Council.

Why see and Endodontist?

Due to their advanced training beyond dental school and specialised scope of practice, endodontists are highly trained in diagnosing dental pain and performing complex root canal treatment.